Crown Point State Historic Site

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Address
21 Grandview Drive
Crown Point, NY 12928

Saratoga/Capital District Region

Latitude 44.024853

Longitude -73.424377

Directions

General Information: (518) 597-4666
Secondary Phone: (518) 597-3666

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2024 Geocache challenge

Crown Point State Historic Site is dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of the ruins of two fortifications from the colonial wars between the British and French. Long before the American Revolution these colonial powers both laid claim to the Champlain Valley and this strategically important peninsula known as Crown Point. The French built Fort St. Frederic here between 1734 and 1737 and used it as a base for raids on British settlements in New York and New England. As a result, the British mounted various expeditions to take control of Crown Point, and in 1759 they were finally successful. They immediately began construction of new fortifications that they called "His Majesty's Fort of Crown Point". Enclosing over seven acres this was one of the largest built by the British in North America.

In 1775, at the outbreak of the Revolutionary War, the American colonists captured the fort and secured sorely needed cannons and heavy ordnance. Crown Point was occupied by General John Burgoyne's army in 1777 after the American evacuation to Mount Independence and remained under British control until the end of the war. The ruins of Fort St. Frederic, "His Majesty's Fort of Crown Point," and surrounding lands were acquired by the State of New York in 1910.

Today, visitors can explore the preserved ruins of these forts and tour the museum which includes a multimedia orientation program, large scale models, and an exhibit of original artifacts recovered from the site by archaeologists. Additionally, the site offers access to the historic Crown Point Pier, the Champlain Memorial Lighthouse, the walking paths on either side of the newly constructed Lake Champlain Bridge, and fantastic views of Lake Champlain. Tours for school and adult groups, as well as outreach programs, are available by reservation.

Crown Point Campground, NYS Department of Environmental Conservation: Open May 18 - Oct 9. Reserve through Reserve America. Information can be found on the campground website or 518-597-3603.

Pet Policy
Dogs on a leash - not exceeding six feet in length. Not permitted in buildings, camping, and picnic areas except where needed as a seeing eye, guide dog (service dog). Proof of license, tags, and a valid rabies vaccination must be demonstrated. Carry in/carry out policy for dog waste

Hours of Operation

Grounds are open from Sunrise to Sunset, Year-round, free of charge.
The Crown Point State Historic Site Museum is open from 10 AM to 5 PM, Wednesdays through Sundays between May 15, 2024 – October 20, 2024. Please call (518) 597-3666 for more information.
The Picnic Pavilion at Crown Point State Historic Site is open and available for reservations from May 18, 2024 through October 14, 2024. Reservations must be made through ReserveAmerica.com.
Guided Walking Tours of Crown Point State Historic Site are offered at 1:00 PM, Wednesday through Sunday, weather and conditions permitting, from mid-May through late October. Pre-registered groups and special events may affect tour schedules and availability. Tours gather at the site museum, and explore the earth and stone ruins of two 18th century forts and highlight the strategic importance of the Crown Point peninsula in the 18th century, all against the scenic backdrop of Lake Champlain and the eastern Adirondacks.

Fees & Rates

Admission
$5 Adults
$4 Seniors/Veterans
Children 12 and under free
$35 Buses
Empire Pass
Empire Pass is NOT sold here
Pavilion Information
Crown Point has one pavilion. Accommodate up to 50 people. ADA accessible (2 tables). 3 charcoal grills available/10 picnic tables. Carry in, carry out policy in place. $50/day plus $7.25 reservation fee. Reservations can be made through ReserveAmerica.com. Please contact the site with questions or special requests.

To make a reservation within seven days of your arrival date, please call the site directly at 518-597-3666

Maps

New! Download this park's digital map to your iOS Apple and Android device.

Crown Point State Historic Site Trail Map

Key BCA Criteria:

- Migratory concentration site

- Diverse species concentration site

- Bird research site

Since 1976, a bird banding station has operated at Crown Point, during which time over 126,000 birds across 110 species have been recorded. The Crown Point Bird Conservation Area is part of the Crown Point State Historic Site. Over 200 species have been observed at the Crown Point BCA. Many of these are spring migrants with 47 species of Neotropical migratory songbirds and 18 species of forest dwelling Neotropical migrants having been observed in spring.

Due to the location under the Atlantic Flyway, the site is a premiere location for viewing birds migrating north for the season. Watch as this experienced team of citizen scientists net hundreds of birds, identify species and record their songs. Viewing tables are set enabling the public to observe the banders at work. Stop by and see nature at its most mysterious in action.

Download a copy of the BCA map.

Amenities Information

Amenities
Biking
Hiking
Picnic Area (Accessible)
Snowshoeing/X-Country Skiing * Ice Fishing also available in winter
Tours * Guided and Self-Guided Tours
Tours (Accessible) * Living History Events
Visitor Center (Accessible)

Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation